As of January 2, the day-use parking fee at 25 Oregon State Parks has increased from $5 to $10 per day. This adjustment marks the first increase in over 15 years and is part of the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department’s (OPRD) plan to address rising operational and maintenance costs, according to an article by Lincoln County Leader.
While the daily parking fee has doubled, the cost of 12-month and 24-month permits remains unchanged at $30 and $50, respectively. Visitors were also able to take advantage of a $5 discount on annual permits during December as part of OPRD’s annual promotion.
Currently, only 25 of Oregon’s more than 250 state parks require a day-use parking permit. Revenue from these fees contributes approximately 35% of OPRD’s funding, alongside constitutionally dedicated lottery funds and recreational vehicle license plate fees.
Importantly, OPRD receives no direct funding from taxes, relying instead on these streams to sustain park operations and improvements.
For visitors seeking reduced-cost access, OPRD offers special access passes for groups such as Oregon foster parents and guardians, U.S. veterans with service-connected disabilities, and active-duty military personnel on official leave.
Additionally, parking fees are waived on select days, including New Year’s Day, the day after Thanksgiving, and Oregon State Parks Day, which also offers free camping.
This fee increase reflects a broader effort by OPRD to balance revenue needs with accessibility. While fees help maintain park infrastructure and services, OPRD continues to explore ways to reduce cost barriers for visitors, including expanding special access programs.
For the outdoor recreation community, this change underscores the challenge of sustaining natural spaces amidst rising costs. By prioritizing long-term maintenance and congestion management, OPRD ensures that Oregon’s parks remain vibrant and accessible for future generations.